Keeping your New Year's resolutions shouldn't mean giving up your relaxing evening cocktail. Here are six recipes for cocktails on the lighter side.

By Kara Newman

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Lavender 75

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The Gingerman from Panzano

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Not quite ready to give up that evening cocktail but still looking for a gentler sip this January? The following drinks, from floral and bubbly (the Lavender 75) to nutty and rich (La Vida Dolce), are all delicious but relatively low in alcohol. They’re ideal to relax with, yet not blow those virtuous New Year’s resolutions. And for those who seek something zero proof, check out our mocktailcoverage.

This is a cobbler-style drink—a 19th-century cocktail served over crushed or pebble ice. They were often served with an elaborate garnish, so don’t skimp on the mint bouquet! This version starts with a base of rich sweet vermouth, given additional depth by small amounts of orange marmalade and Branca Menta, a minty amaro.

Yes, this drink includes a bit of the stiffer stuff, but the main ingredient is Lillet Rosé, a refreshing, easy-drinking French aperitif wine. Overall, the effect is layered and complex, but carries only a modest punch.

Naturally, this Italian restaurant emphasizes ingredients from the homeland in this fruity-spicy number, like Mandarinetto, a mandarin orange liqueur from the Amalfi coast. It’s often likened to limoncello. This also features Prosecco, Italy’s signature sparkling wine.

Ingredients

1 ounce ginger liqueur

1 ounce orange liqueur, like Mandarinetto Liqueur

2 ounces Prosecco

Lemon twist (for garnish)

Directions

In rocks glass, gently stir together all ingredients (except garnish) with ice. Garnish with lemon twist.

This drink’s name points to the location of the restaurant at the edge of New York City’s Bryant Park. The cocktail takes inspiration from the classic Garibaldi cocktail, a citrusy aperitivo from the piazzas of Italy.

Swap the usual Manhattan or other boozy cocktail for this Sherry-forward sipper. Nutty Manzanilla Sherry mixes with Bonal, a French wine-based aperitif similar to sweet vermouth. A small amount of walnut liqueur adds satisfying richness.